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Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) Treatments

Non-Surgical Fibroid Procedures in Minneapolis

“I wear white today because I have power over my body. I have a choice in the treatment I receive. I have a voice and so do you!” – Monica, Former Fibroid Sufferer, The White Dress Project

Fibroid Relief without surgery. Precision care in Minneapolis.

Living with fibroids can feel overwhelming, especially when surgery is presented as the only path forward. At North Star Fibroid Clinic, we specialize in uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) for patients across Minneapolis, a proven treatment that safely shrinks fibroids without removing your uterus. This outpatient procedure has been performed for over 30 years with an excellent safety record and long-term results. If you’re experiencing heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, or urinary frequency and want to avoid major surgery, you may be a candidate for UFE in Minneapolis. We’re here to walk you through every step, with care that’s built around your body, your goals, and your peace of mind. Reach out and schedule you consultation to learn more about how our UFE doctors can help you.

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New National Study: UFE Is a Safer Option Than Surgery

For women dealing with fibroids, surgical treatment has long been presented as the default option—but it’s not the only one. A 2025 study of more than 70,000 women found that those who underwent surgery to treat uterine fibroids, such as a hysterectomy, faced significantly higher complication rates, including blood transfusion, pelvic floor issues, and bowel problems. Yet most are never offered UFE.

Uterine fibroid embolization is a safer, less invasive option backed by 30 years of research—and it’s performed right here at our Minneapolis clinic by experienced specialists who focus on this every day.

3×– Lower risk of blood transfusion compared to hysterectomy
4x – Lower risk of pelvic floor prolapse after UFE
93% Of women report symptom improvement after fibroid embolization
1-Hour Average procedure time done in our outpatient clinic
30+ Years Of clinical success behind UFE as a fibroid treatment

Uterine Fibroids and the Real-Life Impact

Uterine fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) tumors that grow on or within the lining of the uterus. They can range in size from as small as a grape to as large as a cantaloupe. Approximately 20-40% of women over age 35 have fibroids, and African-American women are at a higher risk for developing them.

Fibroid symptoms include in pelvic pain or discomfort, urinary incontinence, frequent urination, and heavy menstrual bleeding. The location and size of uterine fibroids can affect the severity of these symptoms and impact your quality of life. Fibroids are also hormonally sensitive, so the symptoms can be cyclical, just like with menstruation. If fibroids are interfering with your quality of life, treatment doesn’t have to mean surgery or a long recovery. With the right care, many women find lasting relief and a path forward that feels aligned with their goals, health, and future plans.

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Female doctor showing patient model for UFE procedure

Uterine Fibroid Embolization: What You Need to Know

UFE is a less invasive, FDA-approved treatment for uterine fibroids that does not require surgery or removal of the uterus. A specialized doctor, called an interventional radiologist, performs this minimally invasive procedure using real-time X-ray imaging to guide a small catheter into the artery. Once in position, the catheter blocks the blood supply to the fibroids, cutting off their oxygen supply. This causes your fibroid to shrink over time, and symptoms like heavy bleeding, pressure, and bloating gradually improve.

Our UFE doctors perform this procedure in our comfortable Minneapolis outpatient center, and it typically takes less than an hour. You’ll be given light sedation to help you relax, and the uterine artery embolization procedure is done through a tiny access point—no general anesthesia or stitches required. Most patients return home the same day and begin to notice symptom relief within weeks. Mild cramping or fatigue is common for a few days, but recovery is usually quick with support from our care team.

The uterine fibroid embolization procedure is supported by several medical societies and professional guidelines, emphasizing its safety, efficacy, and role as a minimally invasive alternative to hysterectomy and myomectomy.

Key organizations that recognize and endorse UFE include:

Radiology & Interventional Radiology Societies

Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) – Strongly supports UFE as a first line, minimally invasive uterine fibroid treatment. Provides clinical practice guidelines and patient education.
Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiological Society of Europe (CIRSE) – Endorses UFE as a standard treatment for uterine fibroids, providing guidelines and research data.

Interventional Radiology Society of Australasia (IRSA) – Recommends UFE as a viable alternative to surgery for women with symptomatic fibroids.

Gynecology & Women’s Health Organizations

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) – Recognizes UFE as an effective treatment for symptomatic fibroids and includes it in guidelines.
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE, UK) – Recommends UFE as a safe and effective treatment option for uterine fibroids, included in national guidelines.
Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG, UK) – Lists UFE as a recognized treatment option for fibroids in their guidelines.

Other Uterine Fibroid Treatment Supporting Organizations

American College of Radiology (ACR) – Endorses UFE as an effective, evidence-based treatment for uterine fibroids.
Canadian Interventional Radiology Association (CIRA) – Supports UFE as a minimally invasive, uterus-preserving option.

Most major medical guidelines recognize UFE as a safe, effective, and uterus-preserving alternative to hysterectomy or myomectomy for symptomatic fibroids, particularly for women seeking a minimally invasive approach.

You may be a candidate for uterine fibroid embolization at our Minneapolis clinic if you:

Are experiencing the symptoms of uterine fibroids such as heavy bleeding, constipation, or urinary frequency
Are not pregnant
Are seeking an alternative to hysterectomy (removal of the uterus)
Wish to avoid surgery or are a poor candidate for surgery

UFE has been performed for 30 years and has an excellent track record for safety and success. Studies have shown that the chances of fertility have been shown to increase after UFE.

Benefits of Uterine Fibroid Embolization

When fibroids affect your daily life, the right treatment can make all the difference. These are the outcomes that matter most to our patients across the Minneapolis Metro Area and why so many choose our UFE specialists.

No Surgery Required

No general anesthesia or hospital stay, and your uterus stays intact.

Fast Recovery, Real Relief

Most patients return to light activity in a few days and feel steady symptom relief over the following weeks

Preserves Your Uterus

Clinical studies show that 93% of women experience symptom improvement, with many seeing lasting relief beyond five years.

Fewer Risks & Complications

Compared to surgery, this procedure has fewer risks like blood loss or pelvic floor injury.

Understanding Your Options: UFE, Surgery, and Beyond

The #1 UFE Doctors in Minneapolis: North Star Fibroid Clinic

The UFE doctors at North Star Fibroid Clinic are pioneers in interventional radiology. Hailing from some of the region’s most prestigious healthcare and academic institutions, Drs. Jafar Golzarian and Amin Astani were among the first (if not the first) to perform certain imaging-guided procedures in the United States. Our Minneapolis-based outpatient clinic is designed specifically for procedures like UFE—quiet, private, and equipped with the same image-guided technology found in major hospitals. Patients choose us because we focus solely on fibroid treatment, offering real answers, faster recovery, and a better experience from start to finish.

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Proudly Serving the Minneapolis–St. Paul Region and Beyond

North Star Fibroid Clinic welcomes patients from across the Twin Cities and surrounding communities who are looking for a better alternative to fibroid surgery. Our Minneapolis-based clinic provides uterine fibroid embolization treatments to women in St. Paul, Edina, Bloomington, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Maple Grove, Plymouth, Brooklyn Park, Woodbury, Eagan, Burnsville, Roseville, Apple Valley, and throughout greater Minnesota.

Take the Next Step Toward Fibroid Relief

Most women never hear about uterine fibroid embolization treatments, even though it’s backed by 30 years of research and performed by specialists like ours across the country. At North Star Fibroid Clinic in Minneapolis, UFE isn’t one of many services. It’s the foundation of our care. Our doctors helped introduce UFE treatment to the U.S., and today, they offer it in a focused outpatient setting built around your privacy, comfort, and long-term relief. If you’ve been handed a surgical recommendation without a conversation, we’re here to offer one.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Most women experience significant symptom relief for 3-5 years, and some enjoy benefits even longer. The lasting relief from your UFE procedure depends on the size and number of fibroids and your body’s response to the treatment. Our UFE specialists will work with you to ensure the best possible outcome.

Yes, uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) treatment is usually covered by most health insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare. Our friendly staff can assist with verifying coverage and discussing payment options to ensure you get the care you need without added stress.

We’ll give you clear instructions ahead of time, but generally, you’ll be asked to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours beforehand. You’ll also want to arrange a ride home and take it easy the rest of the day. Our UFE specialists will walk you through everything so you’re never left wondering.

The UFE procedure is highly effective, with 90% of patients experiencing significant relief from symptoms like bleeding, pain, and pressure. This allows you to get back to your daily life with fewer interruptions. At our clinic, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch results that help you feel your best.

Not always. While some insurance plans may require a referral, you’re welcome to contact us directly to get started. Our UFE doctors can help you understand your insurance requirements and coordinate with your OB-GYN or primary care provider if needed.

Most women feel ready to return to work or normal activities about a week after their uterine fibroid embolization treatment. Everyone’s recovery is slightly different, but our outpatient model means you’ll go home the same day, and most patients notice symptom improvement within weeks.